Checklist for New COD Students​ and Incoming High School Students Applying for DSPS​

To help you get started as a DSPS student at College of the Desert, please complete the checklist below for New COD Students and Incoming High School Students. If you need assistance, contact Disabled Students Programs and Services (DSPS) at 760-773-2534 or email the DSPS office (dsps@collegeofthedesert.edu).

1. Application for Admission - 760-773-2516. I have completed the College of the Desert application online. The application may take up to two (2) business days to process.

2. Student ID Number - I have received my COD Student ID via email after completing the COD application. If you are a new student, you should receive your student ID number within two (2) business days of applying. If you do not receive it, please call 760-773-2516 for assistance.

3. Log into the MyCOD Portal and Set Up MyCod Email - I have logged into the MyCOD portal and clicked on the "Access Email and Microsoft Office products on Microsoft 365" link.

4. Online Orientation - 760-773-2521. I have logged into the MyCOD portal, clicked on the Take the Student Orientation link and reviewed all the orientation sections. If this step is not completed, you will not be able to register for classes.

5. PlEDGE/EDGE- I am a recent local high school graduate (or equivalent) and have completed the EDGE/plEDGE application online to see if I am eligible (optional).

6. Financial Aid - 760-773-2532. Required for all plEDGE/EDGE students. I have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or California Dream Act Application.

7. Select Classes for Your Major - I have completed the My First Schedule Workshop and selected courses for my major and/or general education goals. I have used the guided self-placement tools to assist with Math and English course selection.

8. Verification of Disability - 760-773-2534. I have emailed DSPS copies of my disability documents and/or medical records related to my disability(s). Examples include the most recent testing, psychological, triennial report, IEP, 504 plan, audiological report and/or doctor’s verification. The Disability Verification Form (opens pdf), if applicable, is to be completed by a licensed professional and emailed to the DSPS office.

9. DSPS Application for Services - 760-773-2534. I have checked my COD email for a link to the DSPS Application for Services and completed it online. Please allow two (2) business days after sending your verification of disability to receive the link.

10. High School Transcripts - I have emailed DSPS a copy of my unofficial high school transcripts, if available.

11. Schedule Intake Appointment with DSPS Counselor - I have scheduled my intake appointment with a DSPS Counselor. Upon receipt of your DSPS Application for Services, DSPS will contact you to schedule your appointment. Please call 760-773-2534 or email DSPS if you have not been contacted within three (3) business days of submitting your DSPS application.

12. Attend DSPS Intake Appointment - 760-773-2534. I have completed my intake appointment with a DSPS Counselor. 

13. Learn How to Register - I have viewed the How to Register for Classes Using Self-Service video (also available in Spanish).

14. Registration - On my priority registration date, I will enroll in the classes I have selected. I have viewed the How to Register for Classes Using Self-Service video on the portal. For deaf and hard-of-hearing students with approved accommodations for ASL interpreting or closed captioning services - immediately after you have registered for classes, please contact the Communication Access Specialist, Tina Cleveland.

15. Faculty Notification Letter - call 760-773-2534 or email DSPS. I have obtained my Faculty Notification Letter from DSPS and provided a copy to my instructor(s).

16. Obtain Your Books - I have purchased, rented or received loaned or free textbooks for my classes.

17. Attend Classes - I will attend in-person classes on the first day and/or check in on Canvas for online courses. If I am currently on a waitlist, I will review the Add Authorization Information and Add Authorization Instructions Video.

18. Counseling Follow Up Appointment - call 760-773-2534 or email DSPS. I will meet with a DSPS Counselor once per semester to discuss my progress and continue to develop my Student Education Plan (SEP) to map out my future academic goals.